Granulated Sugar (Optional), to taste (start with 1 tablespoon of sugar and adjust to your taste)

5-10 Leaves Fresh Mint (can substitute basil, or other fresh herbs)

Equipment

Fruit corer (or sharp knife)

Watermelon keg tapping kit (or replacement beverage dispenser spigot)

Directions

Cut a thin slice of rind off of the flatter end of the watermelon to create a flat, stable base. Be careful to only slice off the rind and not expose any of the watermelon flesh (this will help prevent leaks). Or, if you have a large stable bowl that can hold the watermelon upright, you can skip this step and leave the watermelon intact.

Slice off the opposite end about ¼ of the way down the watermelon to expose the fruit. (Save this piece; it will later serve as the lid.) Scoop out the inside of the watermelon with an ice cream scoop or other large spoon, and set the flesh aside.

Use a corer to create a small opening, about ¼ of the way up from the bottom end of the watermelon, and attach a keg tapping kit to the watermelon shell. Set the watermelon keg aside.

Using a blender, puree the watermelon flesh with the vodka, mint, and sugar until it's completely liquid. If needed, strain the watermelon mixture to remove the seeds. Pour the mixture back into the watermelon and place the lid back on. If desired, use toothpicks or skewers to secure the lid to the watermelon.

Chef Tips

The quantities used in this recipe are for a medium-sized watermelon. Start with ½ cup of vodka when blending, taste, and add more if desired. If the watermelon is naturally sweet, you may not need additional sugar.

For faster, smoother pouring, leave the lid slightly ajar or use the corer to cut a vent hole in the lid.

Follow our video’s easy, step-by-step instructions and learn how to transform a ripe watermelon into a summer party centerpiece that’s sure to spark some juicy conversation. We’ll show you everything you need to know about tapping a DIY watermelon keg that dispenses refreshing and boozy watermelon punch.

Wondering where to get the spigot? You can actually easily order a whole watermelon keg tapping kit online that comes with everything you need. But if you already have a beverage dispensing jar, you can also just unscrew the spigot and use it for your watermelon keg, then screw it back on when you’re done. Or look for a replacement spigot at your local home supplies store.

Once you’ve got the supplies, turning your watermelon into a keg is actually super simple — if you’ve ever carved a jack-o-lantern, you can make a watermelon keg. We mixed the juicy chunks of fresh watermelon with vodka, fresh mint, and a little bit of sugar to make a delicious watermelon punch, but you could fill yours with a family-friendly watermelon lemonade or any other drink.

Whether you bring out the drunken watermelon at a pool party, backyard cookout, or tailgating party, everyone will definitely enjoy the fruits of your labor.

Look for other fun drink ideas for entertaining? Check out some of TipHero’s other crowd-pleasing cocktail recipes: